Callus induction and somatic embryogenesis of Phalaenopsis

Abstract

Callus induction and plant regeneration through somatic embryogenesis in Phalaenopsis Richard Shaffer `Santa Cruz' were examined. Protocorm-like body (PLB) segments formed calli in Vacin and Went medium with sucrose. The optimal concentration of sucrose was 40 g ⋅ l–1. Medium containing 200 ml ⋅ l–1 coconut water together with 40 g ⋅ l–1 sucrose was effective for callus induction. Gellan gum was suitable than agar as a gelling agent for callus induction. The calli easily formed PLBs after being transferred to a medium without sucrose. Histological observation suggested that the PLBs were somatic embryos. No variation was observed in the flowering plants regenerated through somatic embryogenesis.